Immunohistochemical detection of E7 human papillomavirus protein in pre‑malignant and malignant lesions of the uterine cervix.

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) E7 protein expression is caused by HPV viral DNA integration into human cellular DNA, and is a prerequisite for the development and progression of cervical cancer. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of E7 protein as a biomarker for identification of transformed cervical epithelial cells during the early stages of cervical cancer. Specific monoclonal antibodies to the E7protein of high‑risk HPVs were generated and characterized for applications in immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry using cervical epithelial cells or biopsy tissue slides. The specificity and feasibility for detecting precancerous cells in cervical exfoliated epithelial cells was demonstrated. In addition, antibody staining of cervix biopsies indicated the pathological grades of cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. The results of the present study demonstrated the potential benefit of using E7 protein as a novel and specific clinical diagnostic marker to distinguish transient HPV infections from malignant and pre‑malignant lesions.